DogTags to Ownership cover art

DogTags to Ownership

DogTags to Ownership

By: Julie Austin and Matthew Cain
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About this listen

DogTags to Ownership is the podcast designed for military members and veterans ready to transition from service to success in business. Whether you’re considering entrepreneurship for the first time or are already on the path to business ownership, this show provides the tools, insights, and inspiration you need to thrive.


Hosted by U.S. Army Officers Julie Austin and Matthew Cain, we explore the unique strengths veterans bring to the entrepreneurial world, share actionable advice from experts, and feature inspiring stories of those who’ve successfully made the leap.


Tune in to transform your military experience into a foundation for innovation, resilience, and business leadership.


#DogTagsToOwnership #VeteranEntrepreneurs #MilitaryToBusiness #VeteranOwnedBusiness

© 2026 DogTags to Ownership
Economics Political Science Politics & Government
Episodes
  • S2:E6: Building a Business with Purpose: Kamar Perkins' Story
    Feb 10 2026

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    Summary
    In this episode, Kamar Perkins shares his journey from being a U.S. Army officer to becoming an entrepreneur and founder of ProTech Consulting Group. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, the importance of building a strong team, and his commitment to supporting veterans and youth in his community. Kamar emphasizes the significance of perseverance, defining success through impact, and the value of doing what makes you happy.

    Takeaways

    • Kamar Perkins transitioned from military to entrepreneurship.
    • He emphasizes the importance of teamwork and leadership.
    • Kamar's mission includes supporting veterans and youth.
    • He believes in the power of perseverance and not quitting.
    • Success is defined by the impact one has on others.
    • Kamar advocates for affordable housing for veterans.
    • He encourages service members to find their passion post-military.
    • The One Thing by Gary Keller is a recommended read.
    • Kamar makes his bed every morning as part of his routine.
    • He values community and collaboration in business.

    Chapters

    1. 00:00 Introduction to Kamar Perkins
    2. 01:27 Kamar's Military Journey and Transition
    3. 04:10 Building a Business with Purpose
    4. 06:30 Passion and Impact in Entrepreneurship
    5. 09:18 Navigating the Tech Landscape
    6. 11:26 Team Building and Leadership Principles
    7. 13:57 Community Engagement and Youth Support
    8. 21:09 The Artistic Journey: A Love for Art
    9. 22:37 Supporting Veterans: Nonprofit Initiatives and Community Impact
    10. 24:46 Challenges of Transition: Navigating Life After Military Service
    11. 25:51 Defining Success: Impact and Legacy
    12. 27:12 Advice for Transitioning Service Members: Finding Your Path
    13. 29:04 Perseverance: The Importance of Not Quitting
    14. 32:02 Personal Connections: Sports and Community
    15. 32:57 Real Estate Insights: Recommendations and Resources
    16. 37:02 DogTagstoOwnershipJingle.mp3

    To learn more about Kamar and Protect Consulting Group visit their website at https://protechconsultinggroup.com/






    Support the show

    Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/

    Follow us on Social Media

    Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

    X: @DTO_Podcast

    TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

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    37 mins
  • S2:E5: Wreaths by Nicole P.: A Unique Business Story
    Feb 3 2026

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    Summary

    In this episode, Nicole Zettlemoyer shares her inspiring journey from serving in the military to becoming a successful entrepreneur with her business, Wreaths by Nicole P. She discusses her military background, the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, and how she accidentally started her wreath-making business during the pandemic. Nicole highlights the importance of community support, her experiences with Gold Star families, and the operational challenges she faces as a small business owner. She also shares insights on marketing strategies, product expansion, and the emotional connections her wreaths create for customers.

    Takeaways

    • Nicole's journey from military service to entrepreneurship is inspiring.
    • She started her wreath business during the pandemic by accident.
    • Community support played a crucial role in her business growth.
    • Nicole emphasizes the importance of being present for her children.
    • Going viral led to a significant increase in demand for her wreaths.
    • She faced challenges in setting up her business and managing operations.
    • Shipping costs are a significant factor in her business model.
    • Nicole is exploring ways to expand her product offerings.
    • She connects deeply with Gold Star families through her work.
    • Content creation and marketing are ongoing challenges for her.

    Chapters

    1. 00:00 Introduction to Nicole Zettlemoyer
    2. 04:24 Military Journey and Transition
    3. 06:05 Starting the Business: Wreaths by Nicole
    4. 09:22 Going Viral and Business Growth
    5. 12:02 Operational Challenges and Business Setup
    6. 14:29 Current Business Operations and Volume
    7. 17:30 Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement
    8. 20:49 Expanding Product Offerings
    9. 23:49 Connecting with Gold Star Families
    10. 28:39 Challenges and Lessons Learned
    11. 31:31 Recommendations and Final Thoughts

    Check out Wreaths by Nicole P. at https://www.wreathsbynicolep.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqjOD3aRe4JZkfV_7fQf0xs1JOh155rg3DfYcTDl8FuGRTIShGU






    Support the show

    Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/

    Follow us on Social Media

    Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

    X: @DTO_Podcast

    TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • S2:E4: Building a Community of Veteran Leaders
    Jan 27 2026

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    Summary:

    In this episode of Dog Tags to Ownership, hosts Julie Austin and Matt Cain discuss the journeys of veterans transitioning into entrepreneurship. They recap the first three episodes of Season Two, highlighting the stories of Rick Franco, Patrick Murphy, and Ash Stafford, who exemplify leadership, community building, and the importance of veteran voices in business. The conversation emphasizes the mindset needed for success and the significance of creating a supportive ecosystem for veteran entrepreneurs.

    Bonus Content:

    Brian Thompson, a tax attorney and certified financial planner, discusses his journey from tax law to helping LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with financial planning. He emphasizes the importance of mission-driven business practices and the need for financial literacy among military members transitioning to entrepreneurship. Brian shares insights on the holistic approach to financial planning, the significance of understanding one's mission, vision, and values, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs to take action and start their journey.

    Takeaways

    • Veterans are not starting over; they are starting from experience.
    • Leadership and discipline learned in the military are valuable in business.
    • Community support is crucial for transitioning veterans.
    • Ownership is a mindset, not just a path.
    • Veterans can create purpose-driven brands that resonate with their experiences.
    • Daily habits and rituals can set the tone for success.
    • Networking is essential for business growth and support.
    • Veterans have unique problem-solving skills that benefit society.
    • The journey from service to entrepreneurship is ongoing and impactful.
    • Collaboration among veteran-owned businesses can amplify their reach and success.
    • Brian Thompson specializes in financial planning for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.
    • He transitioned from being a tax attorney to a financial planner in 2016.
    • Brian's passion lies in helping others navigate financial complexities.
    • He emphasizes the importance of mission, vision, and values in business.
    • Financial literacy is crucial for military members transitioning to entrepreneurship.
    • Brian advocates for closing the racial wealth gap through business ownership.
    • He believes in a holistic approach to financial planning.
    • Entrepreneurship can be both exciting and anxiety-inducing.
    • Brian encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to take action and start their journey.
    • Community support is vital for success in entrepreneurship.

    Want to learn more about Brian Thompson check out his website https://btfinancial.com/

    Support the show

    Visit our website: https://www.dogtags-to-ownership.com/

    Follow us on Social Media

    Instagram/Facebook/Threads: @dogtags_to_ownership

    X: @DTO_Podcast

    TikTok: @dogtags_to_ownership

    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
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